Overview

Laguna Blanca Peak is part of the Cordon de La Ramada - a very beautiful part of the High Andes just north of Aconcagua. Compared to all the neighbouring mountains Laguna Blanca Peak is nothing but a small hill. It makes a perfect place to acclimatize if you are heading for Mercedario or if you have time to kill while waiting for the pick up back to Barreal. The view from the top is stunning and if you like to climb Mercedario via the normal route you will get a very good idea about the further way up.

the view to the west from the top towards Negro and Mercedario

the view to the northeast towards Ansilta

Getting There

The mountain is best accessible from the normal route of Mercedario. The walk in is via Los Molles. However the mining road is back in operation (feb. 2009) and with a 4 WD you can reach the Refugio Laguna Blanca very easy and in a comfortable way. In fact - using a car you can make it a daytrip from Barreal. But be aware that is a 4000m peak!

Red Tape

When entering the area you need a permission to use the road and also have to register with the gendarmeria in Barreal and at Las Juntas.

Routes / Camping

There are many options. Laguna Blanca Peak is an easy walk up from any direction. You will probably camp at the Refugio Laguna Blanca or at Guanaquitos. The refugio itself is in ruins.

From the Refugio at about 3150m just head up the mining road to the north and leave the road to the left whenever convenient. There are plenty of trails as the Guanacos are very busy in that area.

From Guanaquitos just head up north. Enter the gap between the two hills and from a certain point you will see already the summit.
Guanaquitos at about 3600m is a very good campsite between green meadows and also has very clear water. The number of Guanacos in that area is astonishing and for sure you will see Condors circling the sky.

the two hills north of Guanaquitos Laguna Blanca Peak is not visible

GPS Coordinates

WGS 84: S 31 55.154 / W 70 01.681

Images

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